Chili Lime Shrimp Recipe

Name: Chili Lime Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined, tail-on); 1/4 cup fresh lime juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro (or parsley); 2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce; 2 cloves garlic (chopped); 1/2 tablespoon honey; Salt

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

August 6, 2025

Updated:

August 6, 2025

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Chili Lime Shrimp Recipe is a delightful dish that brings together the zesty flavors of lime and the warmth of chili. Perfect for grilling on a summer evening or as a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is both simple and flavorful. With juicy shrimp marinated to perfection, it’s sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of chili and lime creates a tantalizing taste that elevates the shrimp.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, toss it in a salad, or pair it with pasta for a satisfying meal.
Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in calories, this dish fits well into any healthy eating plan.
Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for BBQs or cookouts, this recipe makes outdoor cooking easy and enjoyable.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Chili Lime Shrimp Recipe, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this dish effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Bamboo skewers
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Grill

Importance of Each Tool

Bamboo skewers: Soaking these prevents burning on the grill and makes for easy handling of shrimp.
Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl ensures you can mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
Whisk: This tool helps blend your marinade smoothly for even coating on the shrimp.
Grill: The primary cooking method for this dish, providing that lovely charred flavor.

Ingredients

Chili Lime Shrimp – juicy and succulent shrimp marinated with chili and lime and grilled to perfection. So good and so easy!

For the Shrimp

1 lb. (500g) shrimp (peeled and deveined, tail-on)
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves (or parsley leaves, chopped finely)
2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
2 cloves garlic (chopped finely)
1/2 tablespoon honey
1 pinch salt

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chili Lime Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Soak Bamboo Skewers

Soak the bamboo skewers in cold water. This helps prevent them from burning while grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry using paper towels. Set aside in a clean bowl.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the marinade:
1. Add lime juice, olive oil, cilantro (or parsley), Thai sweet chili sauce, garlic, honey, and salt.
2. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Marinate the Shrimp

Add the cleaned shrimp to the marinade. Toss gently to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated. Let them marinate for about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Fire up your grill over medium heat.
1. Thread marinated shrimp onto soaked bamboo skewers.
2. Cook on the grill until fully cooked through and slightly charred (about 5-7 minutes), turning once during cooking.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Once done, remove from grill and serve hot. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra pop of flavor!

How to Serve Chili Lime Shrimp Recipe

Serving the Chili Lime Shrimp is just as important as preparing it. The vibrant flavors of the shrimp pair well with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile option for any meal. Here are some creative ways to serve your delicious shrimp.

On Skewers

Present the grilled shrimp on skewers for a fun and appealing presentation. Serve them as finger food at parties or gatherings.

Over Rice

Place the shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice. The rice will soak up the chili lime marinade, enhancing every bite.

In Tacos

Use soft tortillas to create flavorful tacos. Add avocado, cabbage, and a drizzle of extra lime juice for freshness.

With Salad

Toss the chili lime shrimp into a fresh salad. Combine with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing dish.

How to Perfect Chili Lime Shrimp Recipe

Perfecting your Chili Lime Shrimp requires attention to detail and a few culinary tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

Choose Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that smell clean and have a firm texture.
Marinate Properly: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors penetrate deeply into the meat.
Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat ensures that the shrimp get that delicious char without overcooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give each shrimp enough space while cooking. This prevents steaming and ensures even cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Lime Shrimp Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chili Lime Shrimp can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to complement this dish beautifully.

Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty rice dish that mirrors the flavors in your shrimp, adding brightness to each bite.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add color and balance to your plate.
Corn Salad: A sweet corn salad with tomatoes and avocado brings a refreshing crunch that’s perfect alongside spicy shrimp.
Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed salad can be made with black beans, corn, and lime dressing for an extra flavor punch.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover marinade.
Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds crispness and contrasts nicely with the spicy shrimp flavors.
Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad with vegetables can serve as a hearty side that complements the lightness of shrimp.
Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide heartiness that balances the meal without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating shrimp can be tricky, and there are a few common mistakes that can affect your Chili Lime Shrimp Recipe. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

Skipping the Marination Time: Not allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes can lead to less flavorful results. Always give them enough time to soak up the chili lime goodness.
Using Frozen Shrimp: While convenient, starting with frozen shrimp may result in a watery texture. Opt for fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best outcome.
Overcooking the Shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long makes them tough and rubbery. Keep an eye on them—once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
Neglecting Skewers: If you’re using bamboo skewers, failing to soak them can cause burning on the grill. Always soak skewers in cold water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Not adjusting seasoning based on personal taste can lead to bland shrimp. Feel free to tweak the marinade ingredients to suit your flavor preferences.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store leftover chili lime shrimp in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Containers: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent odor absorption.

Freezing Chili Lime Shrimp Recipe

Duration: You can freeze this recipe for up to 3 months.
Containers: Place shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Chili Lime Shrimp Recipe

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat shrimp on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts at medium power (about 30 seconds), checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through, usually taking about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Chili Lime Shrimp?

You can serve this dish over rice, in tacos, or alongside a fresh salad. Its versatility makes it a great addition to many meals.

Can I use other types of seafood in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute shrimp with scallops or fish fillets. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the seafood you choose.

How spicy is the Chili Lime Shrimp Recipe?

The spice level depends on the type of chili sauce used. Thai sweet chili sauce is mild; if you prefer more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the shrimp earlier in the day and cook them just before serving for maximum freshness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Lime Shrimp Recipe is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor that will impress family and friends alike. Its adaptability allows you to customize it with your favorite spices or serve it with various sides. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!